Hot Spring Freshwater Portable Spa Test Strips User Manual

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Hot Spring Freshwater Portable Spa Test Strips by Hiraethore. These test strips are designed to help you maintain the water quality in your hot tub by measuring total bromine, free chlorine, alkalinity, pH, and total hardness levels. This user manual will guide you through the proper usage of these test strips and provide troubleshooting tips and frequently asked questions.

Instructions for Use

1. Remove a test strip from the container. Be sure to close the container after removing the strip to prevent moisture from affecting other strips.
2. Submerge the test strip in your hot tub water for 2 seconds.
3. Remove the strip from the water and give it a gentle shake to remove excess water.
4. Wait 15 seconds for the test strip to develop color.
5. Compare the colors on the test strip to the color chart provided on the container. This will give you the levels of total bromine, free chlorine, alkalinity, pH, and total hardness in your hot tub water.
6. Based on the readings, adjust your hot tub water chemistry as needed according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If you are having difficulty reading the pH level on the test strip, consider purchasing a separate pH meter for more accurate readings.
• Make sure to store the test strips in a cool, dry place to prevent them from being affected by moisture.
• If the test strip colors do not match any of the colors on the chart, try testing the water again with a new strip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I test my hot tub water?

It is recommended to test your hot tub water at least twice a week if you use your spa regularly. Adjust the frequency of testing based on your usage and the manufacturer's recommendations.

How many test strips are included in the container?

The container includes 50 test strips, which should last for about 6 months if you test your water once a week.

Can I use these test strips if I am colorblind?

It may be difficult to read the test strip results if you are colorblind, as the colors on the strip need to be compared to the color chart provided. Consider asking someone who can see colors to help you read the results, or look into alternative testing methods.

Are these test strips compatible with saltwater hot tubs?

Yes, these test strips are designed for use with both freshwater and saltwater hot tubs.

Q: What are the specifications of the Hot Spring Freshwater Portable Spa Test Strips?
A: The Hot Spring Freshwater Portable Spa Test Strips are manufactured by Hot Spring Spas under the brand name Hiraethore. The model number is 73687, and it falls under the category of Industrial & Scientific > Patio, Lawn & Garden > Pools, Hot Tubs & Supplies > Parts & Accessories > Hot Tub Accessories. The package dimensions are 5.12 x 2.95 x 1.5 inches, and it weighs 1.76 ounces. The item model number is 73687, and it belongs to the department of Hot Spring Products. It was first available on December 16, 2010, and it is not discontinued as of now.

Q: What is the expiration date of the Hot Spring Freshwater Portable Spa Test Strips?
A: All strips have an expiration date that varies but should be at least a year from now. You can find the expiration date located on the label at the very end.

Q: Can these test strips be stored outside in Florida’s 80-90 degree weather?
A: Yes, these test strips can be stored outside in hot temperatures as they seem to hold up fine even in southern Baja, Mexico.

Q: Which type of salt should be used with these test strips - sodium chloride bottle or granulated salt bag?
A: These test strips do not require any type of salt to function. However, if you need to add salt to your hot tub, you can use a plastic jar of salt that can be bought at a Hot Springs Spa dealer or online.

Q: How long should I read the strip after dipping it into the water?
A: After a two-second dunk, you should read the strip within the first 30-40 seconds. After that, the colors will start degrading, giving you a false reading.

Q: Are these test strips 5-way or 4-way?
A: These test strips are 5-way, as mentioned on the light blue horizontal bar on the bottle.

Q: What should I do if the readings for the other four parameters - total bromine ppm, alkalinity, total hardness ppm (hard water), and free chlorine - are out of range?
A: To adjust the levels of these parameters, you can use products such as pH increaser or decreaser as well as alkalinity increase or decrease. The amounts to be used for various readings and different tub capacities are mentioned on the products.

Q: Why does this container look different than any of the Hot Springs company's other test strips or products?
A: The container of these test strips looks like the one that came with a new spa and the ones bought on Amazon. It is an authentic product from Watkins Wellness, the manufacturer of Hot Springs Spas.

Q: Is there any difference between these test strips and Freshwater Hot Spring Spas Portable 5 Way Test Strips 80090?
A: Most strips read about the same, and you are paying for the brand name. For something you are going to dip and toss, expensive strips may not be worth it.